Fungal Nail Removal

What are fungal nails?

Fungal nails, also known as onychomycosis, are a common condition that affects the nails of the fingers and toes. It is caused by a fungal infection that can lead to the thickening, discolouration, and brittleness of the nails.

Fungal infections can occur when fungi that are normally present on the skin or in the environment invade the nail. This can happen when the nail is damaged or exposed to moisture, such as from sweating or wearing tight shoes. People who have weakened immune systems or diabetes are also more susceptible to developing fungal nails.

Symptoms of fungal nails can vary, but often include yellow or brown discolouration of the nail, thickening of the nail, and brittleness or crumbly texture. In some cases, the nail may become separated from the nail bed, and there may be a foul odour.

What causes Onychomycosis?

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing onychomycosis. These include:

Poor nail hygiene: Neglecting to keep the nails clean and dry can create an environment that is conducive to fungal growth.

Wearing tight or closed-toe shoes: Shoes that do not allow for proper ventilation can create a warm and moist environment that encourages fungal growth.

Walking barefoot in public areas: Fungi thrive in warm and moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools.

Having a weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to developing fungal nail infections.

Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing fungal nail infections.

Onychomycosis can also be caused by a prior injury or trauma to the nail, such as a cut or a puncture wound. This can allow fungi to enter the nail and cause an infection.

How do you treat Onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, can be treated with various methods depending on the severity of the infection. It’s important to seek treatment from a podiatrist, who can diagnose the infection and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Oral antifungal medications:

These medications are typically taken for several weeks or months to treat the infection. They work by killing the fungi causing the infection. It’s important to note that these medications can have side effects, so it’s essential to follow your podiatrist’s instructions carefully.

Topical antifungal medications:

These medications are applied directly to the affected nail(s) and may be used in conjunction with oral medications. They may be prescribed as a cream, lotion, or nail lacquer.

Laser therapy:

This treatment uses a focused laser beam to penetrate the nail and kill the fungi causing the infection. This is a newer treatment option and may be more expensive than other treatments.

Surgical removal of the nail:

In severe cases of onychomycosis where the nail is severely damaged and not responding to other treatments, surgical removal of the nail may be necessary. A new nail will grow in its place.

In addition to these treatment options, it’s important to practice good nail hygiene and take preventative measures to avoid reinfection. This includes keeping the feet clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and wearing shoes that allow for proper ventilation.

Overall, onychomycosis can be effectively treated with the right treatment plan and good nail care practices. Be sure to work with a podiatrist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

When to see a Podiatrist for fungal nails?

If you have a weakened immune system, diabetes, or a history of fungal nail infections, you may be at a higher risk of developing a fungal nail infection.

It’s important to seek treatment from a podiatrist for fungal nail infections, as they can become worse over time if left untreated. Your podiatrist can diagnose the infection and provide appropriate treatment to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage to the nail.